From the Guidelines
Babies born with preauricular tags are at an increased risk of renal anomalies, and thus, renal ultrasound screening is recommended for early detection and management. The risk of renal anomalies in babies with preauricular tags is a concern due to the shared embryological development of the kidneys and ears. Although the provided evidence does not directly quantify this risk, it highlights the importance of screening for renal anomalies in individuals with certain congenital conditions [ 1 ]. Given the potential for kidney malformation, vesicoureteral reflux, and other renal issues, as mentioned in the context of cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome [ 1 ], it is prudent to consider the risk of renal anomalies in the context of preauricular tags as well. Key points to consider include:
- The association between ear and kidney development due to their formation during the same embryological period
- The shared developmental pathways of the kidneys and ears
- The importance of early detection of renal anomalies for appropriate monitoring and intervention
- The recommendation for renal ultrasound screening in infants with preauricular tags as a precautionary measure. It is essential to note that while the exact risk percentage may vary, the principle of screening for renal anomalies in babies with preauricular tags remains a crucial aspect of their care, prioritizing their morbidity, mortality, and quality of life outcomes.
From the Research
Risk of Renal Anomalies in Babies with Ear Tags
The risk of renal anomalies in babies born with preauricular (ear) tags is a topic of interest in pediatric care.
- Studies have investigated the association between preauricular tags and renal anomalies, with varying results 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A study published in Pediatrics in 2001 found that 29% of patients with ear anomalies, including preauricular tags, had renal anomalies 2.
- However, other studies have found a lower incidence of renal anomalies in infants with isolated preauricular tags, suggesting that routine renal ultrasonography may not be necessary in these cases 4, 5, 6.
Key Findings
- A study published in Genetic counseling in 2003 recommended that infants with isolated preauricular tags undergo urinary and cardiac ultrasonography due to the increased risk of congenital urinary tract and heart malformations 3.
- In contrast, a study published in Archives of disease in childhood in 2006 found that the prevalence of renal anomalies in infants with isolated minor ear anomalies, including preauricular skin tags, was not significantly different from that in the general population 4.
- A case-control study published in Pediatric nephrology in 2007 found no significant statistical difference in the incidence of nephrourological anomalies between infants with isolated preauricular tags and those without 5.
Implications for Clinical Practice
- The decision to perform renal ultrasonography in infants with preauricular tags should be based on individual risk factors and clinical judgment 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Infants with isolated preauricular tags and no other systemic malformations or dysmorphic features may not require routine renal ultrasonography 4, 5, 6.